How to fix a PC whose Bluetooth wont detect / connect to other devices

In our previous guide on Windows PC radio issues & fixes, we discussed How to fix Wi-Fi disabled by Windows Mobility Center (see https://journal.hovatek.com/how-to-fix-wi-fi-disabled-by-windows-mobility-center/ ) . In this guide, we’ll be looking at a common Bluetooth headache; which is problems detecting or connecting to other Bluetooth devices. We’ll be discussing common causes and working fixes to apply when experiencing such.

What could cause a Windows PC’s Bluetooth not to detect or connect to other Bluetooth devices?

Set Connection alert to active: Go to the system tray (bottom right corner) > Start menu > Control Panel > Hardware and Sound > Bluetooth devices > Select Options > Tick the box in front of Alert me when a new Bluetooth device wants to connect

Enable the appropriate file transfer mode: Set Bluetooth to Send file if you wish to send and Receive file if you wish to receive. To do this, go to the system tray (bottom right corner) > Right-click the Bluetooth icon